US8053707B2 - Barbecue grill - Google Patents

Abstract

A barbecue grill for cooking an object. The barbecue grill includes a first resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object, and a second resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object.

Description

This application is a continuation-in-part application of application Ser. No. 11/620,906, filed Jan. 8, 2007.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a barbecue grill and a barbecue assembly including same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electric barbecue grills are known. In general, it is difficult to provide sufficient radiated heat to cook the barbecued meat (or any other object to be cooked) to the extent required using known electric barbecue grills. Also, it is difficult to provide sufficient conducted heat through grill elements to create dark barbecue grill markings on the meat in known electrical barbecue grills. In particular, in known electric barbecue grills, providing the required amounts of such heat (i.e., radiated heat and conducted heat) in the appropriate proportions relative to each other has proven to be extremely difficult to achieve.

In known electric barbecues, the manner in which grease and other liquids released from the barbecued object during barbecuing are dealt with also appears to have been problematic. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 5,488,897 (Snyder) discloses a structure in which an electric heating element is mounted onto an aluminium heater plate, which is attached to the bottom of an extruded or cast aluminium cooking grid with a number of grill elements. A food product to be barbecued is positioned on the grill elements, and heated. In Snyder, however, grease and other liquids from the barbecued product are not allowed to fall between the grill elements. Instead, in the Snyder invention, grease and other liquids are collected off the top surfaces of the grid and then directed away from the grid (and the electric heating element), instead of falling through the grid.

Another prior art barbecue grill is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,105,725 (Haglund). Unlike the grid disclosed in Snyder, the grid element (68) in Haglund includes “vent holes” (10) which are described as permitting hot gases generated by a heat source beneath the grid to pass upwardly, permitting “a certain amount” of liquid from the food product to pass therethrough, and also permitting thermal expansion and contraction of the grid (col. 5, lines 66-68 and col. 6, line 1-8). The grid element is intended for use in a variety of barbecues, including barbecues with “electrical heating elements” (col. 1, lines 13-16).

The vent holes in the Haglund grid are arranged in a “staggered” pattern (col. 6, lines 33-39). The shapes of the openings may be as desired (col. 6, lines 47-56). However, the Haglund patent teaches that the overall area of the vent holes should be limited to between about 10 percent and about 25 percent of the total area of the “planar base” of the grid (col. 6, lines 57-66). This range is said “to provide a good balance”, for the following reasons (col. 6, lines 66-68 and col. 7, lines 1-11):

• • If the base 4 collects too much fat, then the fat can ignite which chars the meat resting on the grill rails 8. Also, if an excessive area is provided by the vent holes 10, then it is possible for flames originating from below the base 4 to pass upwardly through the vent holes 10 and char the meat being cooked on the grill rails 8. A minimum area of solid base is also desirable in order to collect fat and other juices dripping from the meat and other food products being cooked on the grid element 2. The hot base 4 cooks the dripping fat and juices, and generates a certain amount of smoke and flavored gases which provide a “barbecue-type” flavor to the meat and other food products.

It appears that, in each of the grids disclosed in the Snyder and Haglund patents, a significant amount of grease and other liquids from a barbecued article would tend to remain on the prior art grid. However, as is known in the art, where grease and other liquids (and pieces of the barbecued food article) remain on the grid, they tend to become baked on the grid, ultimately adversely affecting the efficiency of the grid. Also, the accumulated materials may result in excessive smoke and other undesirable effects.

There is therefore a need for an improved barbecue grill which overcomes or mitigates one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In its broad aspect, the invention provides a barbecue grill for cooking an object. The barbecue grill includes a first resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object and a second resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object.

In another of its aspects, the first and second resistive element subassemblies are energizable independently of each other.

In yet another of its aspects, the barbecue grill is adapted for self-cleaning.

In yet another of its aspects, the invention provides a barbecue assembly for cooking an object. The barbecue grill assembly includes a barbecue grill with first and second resistive element subassemblies, and a tub in which the barbecue grill is mounted, for supporting the barbecue grill in one or more predetermined positions.

In another aspect, the predetermined positions include one or more grill positions, in which the grill is located for grilling the object, and one or more broil positions, in which the grill is located for broiling the object.

In yet another aspect, the predetermined positions include one or more grill positions, in which the grill is located for grilling the object, and one or more raised positions, in which the grill is located at least partially above the grill position to permit cleaning of the tub.

In yet another of its aspects, the invention provides a connector assembly to provide an electrically conductive supply connection between a supply wire through which electric power is provided and a conductive distributor for distributing the electric power to one or more resistive elements for generating heat. The connector assembly includes a tube extending between inner and outer ends thereof, the inner end being proximal to the resistive elements, and the outer end being positioned distal thereto. A portion of the conductive distributor is positioned in the tube between the inner end thereof an intermediate position between the inner and outer ends. Also, the supply wire is positioned in the tube between the outer end and the intermediate position. The conductive distributor and the supply are electrically connected at the intermediate position to form the electrically conductive supply connection. The connector assembly also includes a thermal insulator for at least partially insulating the supply connection from heat generated by the resistive element(s).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an upper side of an embodiment of a barbecue grill of the invention;

FIG. 2A is a cross-section of a portion of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 1, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 2B is a cross-section of an embodiment of a barbecue assembly of the invention including the barbecue grill ofFIG. 1, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 3A is an isometric view of a lower side of an alternative embodiment of a barbecue grill of the invention, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 3B is an isometric view of an upper side of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a cross-section of a portion of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 3A, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 4B is a cross-section of another embodiment of a barbecue assembly of the invention including the barbecue grill ofFIG. 4A, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an upper side of an alternative embodiment of a barbecue grill of the invention, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 5, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 7 is a cross-section of a portion of the grill ofFIG. 6, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view (partially cut away) of a rib in the barbecue grill ofFIG. 6, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a lower side of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 6, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 10 is a cross-section of a portion of an alternative embodiment of the barbecue grill of the invention, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the barbecue grill of the invention, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 12 is a top view of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 11, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 13 is an isometric view (partially cut away) of an embodiment of a barbecue assembly of the invention;

FIG. 14 is a cross-section of the barbecue grill assembly ofFIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of another alternative embodiment of the barbecue assembly of the invention in which an alternative embodiment of the barbecue grill of the invention is mounted in the grill position, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of the barbecue assembly ofFIG. 15 in which the barbecue grill is mounted in the broil position;

FIG. 17A is an isometric view (in partial cross-section) of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 16;

FIG. 17B is a cross-section of portions of the first and second resistive subassemblies, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 18A is a top view of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 17, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 18B is a circuit diagram schematically illustrating certain elements of the barbecue grill ofFIG. 18A;

FIG. 19 is a partial cross-section of the barbecue assembly ofFIG. 16, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 20 is an isometric view (partially cut away) of the barbecue assembly ofFIG. 16 showing the barbecue grill in the broil position, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 21 is another isometric view (partially cut away) of the barbecue assembly ofFIG. 15 showing the barbecue grill in the grill position, drawn at a smaller scale;

FIG. 22 is a cross-section of the barbecue assembly ofFIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of a portion of the barbecue assembly ofFIG. 16 showing the barbecue grill in the broil position, drawn at a larger scale;

FIG. 24 is a cross-section of an embodiment of a connector assembly of the invention;

FIG. 25 is an isometric view of another alternative embodiment of the barbecue assembly of the invention showing the grill in the grill position, drawn at a smaller scale; and

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the barbecue assembly ofFIG. 25 showing the grill in a raised position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference is first made toFIGS. 1,2A, and2B to describe an embodiment of a barbecue grill in accordance with the invention indicated generally by the numeral20. Thebarbecue grill20 is for barbecuing an object21 (FIG. 2A) which releases a liquid during barbecuing (i.e., cooking) thereof. Thebarbecue grill20 comprises a number ofelongate ribs22 for supporting theobject21 which are spaced apart from each other by at least a firstpredetermined distance23, as will be described. Thebarbecue grill20 also includes one or moreresistive element assemblies38 for generating heat to barbecue the object positioned at a secondpredetermined distance43 below the object21 (FIG. 2A).

Preferably, theresistive element subassembly38 is at least partially spaced apart from eachrib22 by a second predetermined distance39 (at a minimum) to define a gap between theresistive element subassembly38 and theadjacent rib22, through which liquid from the barbecuedobject21 moves under the influence of gravity.

It is preferred that theresistive element subassembly38 includes an electricallyresistive element40 positioned inside asheath80. Theresistive element40 is electrically insulated from thesheath80 by anelectric insulator82 disposed between theresistive element40 and thesheath80.

Sheathed elements are well known in the art, and it is therefore unnecessary to provide further details of the resistive element subassembly's construction, except as follows. In one embodiment, thesheath80 is generally substantially circular in cross-section and the resistive element is coaxial with the sheath. However, it is also preferred that, in another embodiment, thesheath80 is somewhat flattened in anupper side portion84 thereof, so that thesheath80 in theupper side portion84 is proximal to theresistive element40. As can be seen inFIG. 2A, it is preferred that a generally circular cross-section is formed by alower side portion86 of thesheath80. Accordingly, theupper side portion84 of thesheath80 is closer to theresistive element40 than thelower side portion86 of thesheath80. As a consequence of the asymmetrical cross-section configuration of thesheath80, somewhat greater outward radiation of heat is provided from theupper side portion84, such thermal radiation being directed generally upwardly (FIG. 2A), as will be described. Also, heat is radiated from thesheath80 radially in substantially all directions, as will be described.

In one embodiment, eachrib22 includes atop surface27 at atop end28 of eachrib22 for supporting at least a portion of theobject21. Preferably, thetop surfaces27 substantially define a plane (designated as “P” inFIG. 2A). As shown inFIG. 2A, theresistive element subassembly38 preferably is positioned the secondpredetermined distance43 below the plane substantially defined by the top surfaces of the ribs22 (FIG. 2A). Preferably, the second predetermined distance is so that theresistive element subassembly38 is sufficiently close to the plane “P” to cook theobject21, however, without thesubassembly38 generally burning theobject21 due to direct thermal radiation.

As can be seen inFIG. 1, thebarbecue grill20 includes agrid portion41 thereof having aframe42 with one ormore support members44. Thegrid portion41 also includes theribs22. Eachrib22 extends between afirst end46 and asecond end48 thereof, and the first and second ends46,48 are both attached to thesupport member44. Preferably, and as shown inFIG. 1, theribs22 are positioned substantially parallel to each other.

FIG. 1 also shows that eachrib22 preferably includes vertically-orientedrecesses47 positioned at the first and second ends46,48. Eachrecess47 is defined by asurface49. Preferably, eachsurface49 generally follows a portion of an arc formed to receive thelower side portion86 of thesheath80. In order to facilitate conduction of heat from theresistive element subassembly38 to therib22, it is preferred that substantially theentire surface49 engages anexterior surface87 of the lower side portion86 (FIG. 2A). Accordingly, thesurface49 preferably follows an arc curved in substantially the same way as theexterior surface87 of thelower side portion86 is curved, so that thesurface49 will generally closely fit with and engage theexterior surface87 of thelower side portion86.

Preferably, theresistive element subassembly38 is continuous, extending from oneend51 thereof to anotherend53 thereof. The ends51,53 are adapted for connection to a source of electrical power to theresistive element40, as is known. The means for connecting theends51,53 to the electrical power source are not illustrated as they are well known in the art. Theresistive element subassembly38 also preferably includes a plurality ofcorner portions55. As shown inFIG. 1, thecorner portions55 are receivable in therecesses47.

Preferably, the material out of which thegrid portion41 is made has a high heat tolerance, i.e., such material should be capable of withstanding temperatures of approximately 500° C. It is also preferred that the material of which thegrid portion41 is made has a reasonable ability to absorb heat through conduction and radiation. Finally, because of the need to scrape thegrid portion41 after use, it is also preferred that thegrid portion41 be made of material having sufficient durability to withstand repeated cleanings with metallic tools. Thegrid portion41 may be made of any suitable material, e.g., cast iron, steel, or stainless steel. Also, those skilled in the art would appreciate that certain grades of aluminum which are relatively hard (e.g., aluminum grade 6061-T6) may be suitable.

As can be seen inFIGS. 1 and 2A, eachrib22 is adapted for receiving theobject21 on thetop end28 of the central portion24 (and supporting the object21), where theobject21 is heated by conduction of heat from the central portion24, and by radiation of heat from theupper surface34 of aridge portion30. Preferably, theupper surface34 is configured to direct liquid released by the barbecued object toward anouter edge36 thereof, as shown inFIG. 2A.

Preferably, one ormore ridge portions30 are positioned generally transverse to the central portion24 and below thetop end28 of eachrib22. Eachridge portion30 includes alower surface32 adjacent to abottom end26 of the central portion24 and anupper surface34 positioned above thelower surface32. Theouter edge36 of theridge portion30 is positioned distal to the central portion24 (FIG. 2A).

In order to facilitate more efficient heat transfer from theresistive element subassembly38 to the central portion24, theridge portions30 preferably are as thin as practicable. Theridge portions30 should be sufficiently thick that they are durable, i.e. sufficiently substantial to withstand normal wear and tear.

Preferably, thegap39 between theresistive element subassembly38 and theridge portion30 is minimized, for more efficient heat transfer. However, thegap39 should also be sufficiently large that grease (i.e., liquid) from theobject21 can pass through thegap39, under the influence of gravity. Also, food particles typically fall off theobject21 from time to time, and it is preferred that thegap39 be sufficiently large to permit most of such food particles to pass therethrough.

It is also preferred that the distance betweenadjacent ribs22 should be minimized, in order to maximize the transfer of heat from theresistive element subassembly38 to theribs22. However, thedistance23 betweenadjacent ribs22 should also be sufficiently large to permit liquid (i.e., grease exiting theobject21 as it is cooked) and food particles to pass downwardly betweenadjacent ribs22.

As can be seen inFIG. 1, the central portion24 of eachrib22 includes amain segment50 extending between the first and second ends46,48, and spaced apart from the first and second ends46,48. Theridge portions30 of eachrib22 preferably extend laterally a preselected distance52 from the central portion along the length of the main segment50 (FIG. 2A).

Thesupport members44 preferably define a substantially rectangular orsquare frame42, which (in one embodiment) includeside support members94 defining respective sides of the frame42 (FIG. 1). Also, in this embodiment, theribs22 includeterminal ribs95 which are positioned adjacent to the respectiveside support members94. Preferably, the outer edges of the ridge portions of theterminal ribs95 are spaced apart from theside support members94 by a distance which is about the same as thegap23. As can be seen inFIG. 1, it is preferred that theside support members94 include correspondingnotches96. Preferably, each of thenotches96 defines anopening97 for permitting movement of liquid and food particles from the object therethrough by gravity. Primarily, theopening97 is useful when the grill is cleaned (i.e., scraped) after use, as relatively larger food particles may be dislodged during cleaning.

However, most of the liquid and food particles fall between the ribs, i.e., thepredetermined distance23 has been found to be sufficiently large that most liquid and waste material from the object falls between the ribs. Theopenings97 are useful primarily with respect to relatively large food particles which are dislodged when the grill is scraped to clean it after use. In one embodiment, the outer edge of eachridge portion30 is spaced apart from eachadjacent rib22 by thepredetermined distance23 to permit drainage of the liquid from eachupper surface34 off theouter edge36 thereof (FIG. 2A). The distance betweenadjacent ribs22 should be minimized, in order to maximize the heat radiated onto theobject21. However, thedistance23 betweenadjacent ribs22 should also be sufficiently large to permit liquid and food particles to pass downwardly betweenadjacent ribs22. Preferably, eachrib22 extends about 0.5 inches between thetop surface27 and thebottom end26. It has been determined that the optimal distance betweenadjacent ribs22 is approximately 0.2 inches.

In use, theresistive element40 generates heat when an electrical current is allowed to pass through theresistive element40. Heat is transferred from theresistive element40 through theelectric insulator82 by conduction, to cause thesheath80 to become hot. As described above, the heat is radiated from theupper side portion84 of thesheath80 generally upwardly, i.e., generally toward theobject21 to be cooked, as schematically illustrated by arrows “A₁”, “A₂”, and “A₃” inFIG. 2A. However, heat also is radiated from thesheath80 in other directions, as indicated by arrows “B”, “C”, and “D” inFIG. 2A. Accordingly, eachrib22 is heated, both by thermal radiation from theresistive element subassembly38, and also through conduction, because theresistive element subassembly38 is in direct contact with eachrib22 at therecess47. Preferably, in order to facilitate heat transfer to theribs22 by thermal radiation, theribs22 are colored black. Heat is also transferred from therib22 to theobject21 by conduction at thetop surface27, where the object is in contact with the top surface. This results in lines of blackened or charred material (e.g., charred meat, if theobject21 is a piece of meat) in theobject21 where theobject21 contacts thetop surface27, which are generally desirable for showing that the object has been barbecued.

As can be seen inFIG. 2A, grease and other liquids released by theobject21 as it is barbecued move downwardly past theassembly38, under the influence of gravity. The flow of such liquids due to gravity is schematically illustrated by arrows identified as “E” inFIG. 2A.

As shown inFIG. 2B, thebarbecue grill20 preferably is included in abarbecue assembly64 which includes ahousing66 with afloor portion67. Thehousing66 also includeswalls72 extending upwardly from thefloor portion67 and anopenable lid74, all of which preferably are insulated (as will be described), to minimize heat loss. Thelid74 preferably is positioned in thehousing66 so that thelid74 engages thewalls72 to form a generally air-tight seal when closed, as is known. Preferably, thebarbecue grill20 is mounted in thehousing66 at a position vertically spaced apart from thefloor portion67. Grease and other liquids released from theobject21 as the object is barbecued pass through thebarbecue grill20 and collect on thefloor portion67. As is known, thefloor portion67 is formed to direct liquids accumulated thereon to a drain (not shown inFIG. 2B) through which the liquids exit thehousing66.

As can also be seen inFIG. 2B, thehousing66 preferably includes one or moreinsulating components75 which are included in thefloor67, thewalls72, and thelid74. The insulatingcomponent75 may be any suitable material or structure, as would be known by one skilled in the art. However, it is preferred that the insulating component be an air gap (not shown), i.e., an enclosed space defined by a double-walled construction in which “dead” air provides the insulating effect. As a double-walled structure is well known in the art, it is not necessary to provide any further description of this construction.

As can be seen inFIG. 2A, by positioning theresistive element subassembly38 relatively close to the object21 (i.e., relatively close to the plane “P”), the radiation view factor of theresistive element subassembly38 with respect to theobject21 is very favorable. Thepreferred distance43 is approximately 0.2 inches. Also, because of the positioning of theresistive element subassembly38 relatively proximal to theobject21, much more thermal radiation is received by theobject21 than would be the case if theresistive element subassembly38 were positioned further away from theobject21, as is the case in the prior art. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the appropriate balance is required to be found between the amount of thermal radiation provided to theobject21 and the amount of heat transferred to theobject21 by conduction, i.e., at the contact between theobject21 and thetop surfaces27 of the ribs. Preferably, sufficient heat is transferred to theobject21 via conduction from theribs22 that charred (black) grill markings are developed on the object within a predetermined time period. Also, it is preferred that, within approximately the same time period, sufficient heat is transferred to theobject21 via thermal radiation to cook the object to a desired extent.

It will be understood that, although theribs22 as illustrated are generally in the shape of an inverted “T”, theribs22 may have any suitable configuration or form. For example,FIG. 10 illustrates ribs having an alternate structure, as will be described.

Additional embodiments of the invention are shown inFIGS. 3A-26. InFIGS. 3A-26, elements are numbered so as to correspond to like elements shown inFIGS. 1,2A, and2B.

Another embodiment of thebarbecue grill120 of the invention is shown inFIGS. 3A,3B,4A, and4B. Thebarbecue grill120 includes a number ofribs122 for supporting theobject21 spaced apart from each other by at least a firstpredetermined distance123. Thebarbecue grill120 also includes one or moreresistive element subassemblies138 positioned at least partially under theribs122, as will be described. Preferably, thegrill120 includes oneresistive element subassembly138. As will be described, theresistive element subassembly138 is for generating heat to barbecue theobject21. Eachrib122 includes acontact surface188 with which theresistive element subassembly138 engages, for conduction of heat generated by theresistive element subassembly138 into eachrib122.

It is preferred that theresistive element subassembly138 includes aresistive element140 positioned inside asheath180. Anelectric insulator182 is positioned between theresistive element140 and thesheath180, to prevent electric current from passing directly from theresistive element140 to thesheath180, as is known.

Preferably, thesheath180 includes amating portion189 with anouter surface190 shaped for engagement with thecontact surface188. It is preferred that theouter surface190 engages thecontact surface188 generally, for conduction of heat generated by theresistive element140 from thesheath180 to thecontact surface188.FIG. 3A showsribs122 with theresistive element subassembly138 positioned on thecontact surface188, but it also shows contact surfaces188 in which the resistive element subassembly is not positioned. As shown inFIGS. 3A and 4A, thecontact surface188 preferably substantially defines a semi-circle (or defines an arc describing a part of a circle, as the case may be), and theouter surface190 is also substantially semi-circular (or defines an arc describing a part of a circle, as the case may be), and formed to fit with thecontact surface188.

As can be seen inFIG. 4A, eachrib122 includes acentral portion124 extending from thecontact surface188 to atop surface127 at atop end128 thereof. Eachrib122 also includesridge portions130 extending generally transversely from thecentral portion124. As can be seen inFIG. 4A, eachridge portion130 includes anupper surface134 which generally faces upwardly and toward an adjacent rib.

In order to facilitate more efficient heat transfer from thecontact surface188 to theupper surface134,body segments192 of theridge portions130 preferably are as thin as practicable. Thebody segments192 should be sufficiently thick to provide fordurable ridge portions130, i.e., ridge portions which are sufficiently substantial to withstand cleaning after use of thebarbecue grill120. However, the thinner theridge portion130, the more efficiently heat may be transferred via theridge portion130, i.e., from the contact surface to the upper surfaces. Accordingly, eachupper surface134 is preferably positioned proximal to thecontact surface188 in eachrib122.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that heat is both conducted to thetop surface127 from theresistive element subassembly138, and heat is also radiated generally upwardly from the upper surfaces134.

As can be seen inFIGS. 3A and 3B, thebarbecue grill120 includes agrid portion141 thereof having aframe142 with one ormore support members144. Thegrid portion141 also includes theribs122. Eachrib122 extends between afirst end146 and asecond end148 thereof, both of which are attached to thesupport member144. Preferably, theribs122 are positioned substantially parallel to each other.

As can also be seen inFIGS. 3A and 3B, eachrib122 is adapted for receiving theobject21 on thetop end128 of thecentral portion124, and for heating theobject21 by both conduction of heat from thecentral portion124 and radiation of heat from theupper surface134 of theridge portion130. Preferably, theupper surface134 is configured to direct the liquid released by the barbecued object toward anouter edge136 thereof, as shown inFIG. 4A. Theouter edge136 is disposed distal to thecentral portion124.

As can be seen inFIG. 4A, theresistive element subassembly138 is preferably positioned apredetermined distance143 below the object. A larger (e.g., taller)central portion124 of eachrib122 tends to decrease the amount of heat available at thetop end128 for transfer to theobject21, i.e., to cook theobject21. Also, the extent of radiated heat to which theobject21 is subjected is substantially reduced where thedistance143 is larger. Thepredetermined distance143 should be large enough that theobject21 is not generally burned, but small enough that theobject21 receives sufficient heat to cook it.

As can be seen inFIGS. 3B and 4A, theridge portions130 extend laterally from thecentral portion124. Preferably, eachrib122 is formed as an integral body which includes thecentral portion124 and theridge portions130, integrally joined together.

In one embodiment, theouter edge136 of eachridge portion130 is spaced apart from eachrib122 which is adjacent thereto by thepredetermined distance123 to permit drainage of the liquid from eachupper surface134 at theouter edge136 thereof (FIG. 4A). Thedistance123 betweenadjacent ribs122 should be minimized, in order to maximize the heat radiated onto theobject21. However, the distance betweenadjacent ribs122 should also be sufficiently large to permit liquid and food particles to pass downwardly betweenadjacent ribs122. It has been determined that the optimal distance betweenadjacent ribs122 is approximately 0.2 inches.

As can be seen inFIG. 3B, thecentral portion124 of eachrib122 includes amain segment150 extending between the first and second ends146,148, and spaced apart from the first and second ends146,148. Theridge portions130 of eachrib122 preferably extend laterally apreselected distance152 from the central portion along the length of themain segment150. It is also preferred that eachrib122 includes one ormore notches154 defining an opening157 (FIG. 3B) for permitting movement of liquid and food particles from the object therethrough by gravity.

Thenotches154 are sized and located so that theopening157 defined thereby permits liquids and waste materials (i.e., food particles) from the object which are scraped off or otherwise directed by the rib (e.g., when the ribs are cleaned, after use) to fall into aspace158 provided beneath the barbecue grill120 (FIG. 4B).

As described above, it will be understood that most of the liquid and food particles from the object falls between the ribs. Theopening157 is useful primarily in connection with disposal of the food particles scraped from the ribs during cleaning thereof.

Preferably, theresistive element subassembly138 is continuous, extending from oneend151 thereof to anotherend153 thereof. The ends151,153 are adapted for connection to a source of electrical power to theresistive element140, as is known. The means for connecting theends151,153 to the electrical power source are not illustrated, as they are well known in the art. Theresistive element subassembly138 also preferably includes a plurality of corner portions155 (FIG. 3A).

As can be seen inFIGS. 3A and 3B, thenotches154 preferably are positioned to accommodate thecorner portions155 of theresistive element subassembly138. At those locations where thecorner portion155 extends between ribs, theresistive element subassembly138 occupies the openings defined by thenotches154. Accordingly, in thegrill120, thenotches154 are generally located a relatively small distance inwardly from the first and second ends146,148.

Preferably, the material out of which thegrid portion141 is made has a high heat tolerance, i.e., such material should be capable of withstanding temperatures of approximately 600° C. It is also preferred that the material of which thegrid portion141 is made has a reasonable ability to absorb heat through conduction and convection, as will be described. Because of the need to scrape thegrid portion141 after use, it is also preferred that thegrid portion141 be made of material having sufficient durability to withstand repeated cleanings with metallic tools. Finally, the material should be a material to which a porcelain coating would adhere. Thegrid portion141 may be made of any suitable material, e.g., cast iron, steel, or stainless steel. Also, those skilled in the art would appreciate that certain grades of aluminum which are relatively hard (e.g., aluminum grade 6061-T6) may be suitable.

In use, theresistive element140 generates heat when an electrical current passes through theresistive element140. Heat is conducted from theresistive element140 through theelectrical insulator182 to cause thesheath180 to become hot. As described above, heat is conducted from themating portion189 through theouter surface190 thereof to thecontact surface188 of eachrib122. As schematically illustrated by arrows “F” and “G” inFIG. 4A, heat is radiated from theupper surfaces134 of theridge portions130 to cook theobject21. Also, heat is conducted through thecentral portion124 to the top surface127 (as illustrated by arrow “H” inFIG. 4A), to be conducted to the object21 (i.e., where theobject21 is in contact with the top surface127), and to provide charred (black) grill markings on theobject21.

As a practical matter, it is unlikely that a “perfect” (or substantially perfect) mate between theouter surface190 of themating portion189 of eachsheath180 and thecontact surface188 of eachrib122 is achieved. Instead, it is anticipated that there will occasionally be very small gaps (not shown) present (i.e., in barbecue grills constructed in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention) between theouter surface190 of themating portion189 of thesheath180 and thecontact surface188 of therib122. It will be understood that, although the resultant gaps between theouter surface190 and thecontact surface188 would typically be relatively small, the contact surface188 (and, as a result, the central portion124) are, to an extent, heated by convection from theouter surface190 where such gaps exist, as well as by conduction where there is direct contact. Accordingly, in practice, heat is transferred to therib122 via conduction and convection.

As can be seen inFIG. 4A, grease and other liquids released by theobject21 as it is barbecued move downwardly past theribs122, under the influence of gravity. The flow of such liquids due to gravity is schematically illustrated by arrows “I” inFIG. 4A.

As shown inFIG. 4B, thebarbecue grill120 preferably is included in abarbecue assembly164 which includes ahousing166 with afloor portion167. Thehousing166 also includeswalls172 extending upwardly from thefloor portion167 and anopenable lid174 which preferably are insulated, to minimize heat loss. Thelid174 preferably is positioned on the walls172 a distance above thefloor portion167, as is known. Preferably, thebarbecue grill120 is mounted in thehousing166 at a position vertically spaced apart from thefloor portion167. Grease and other liquids released from theobject21 as the object is barbecued pass through thebarbecue grill120 and are collected on thefloor portion167. As is known, thefloor portion167 is formed to direct liquids accumulated thereon to a drain (not shown inFIG. 4B) through which the liquids exit thehousing166.

As can be seen inFIG. 4B, thehousing166 preferably includes one or moreinsulating components175 included in thefloor167, thewalls172, and thelid174. The insulatingcomponent175 may be any suitable material or structure, as would be known by one skilled in the art. However, it is preferred that the insulating component be an air gap (not shown), i.e., an enclosed space defined by a double-walled construction in which “dead” air provides the insulating effect.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, where the sheath portion (e.g., sheath180) of the resistive element subassembly (i.e., the sheathed element) is substantially circular in cross-section, manufacturing costs therefore are somewhat lower than those incurred in manufacturing a sheathed element in which the cross-section of the sheath is not substantially circular (e.g., thesheath80 in the resistive element subassembly38).

Reference is next made toFIGS. 5-9 to describe another embodiment of a barbecue grill in accordance with the invention indicated generally by the numeral220. As can be seen inFIGS. 5-7, thebarbecue grill220 includes a number ofelongate ribs222 for supporting theobject21. Eachrib222 includes an elongatecentral portion224 extending substantially vertically between abottom end226 and a top end228 (FIG. 8). Preferably, therib222 includes one ormore ridge portions230 positioned generally transverse to thecentral portion224 and below thetop end228. Theridge portion230 includes alower surface232 adjacent to thebottom end226 and anupper surface234 positioned above thelower surface232. Preferably, theupper surface234 extends between thecentral portion224 and anouter edge236 of theridge portion230 which is positioned distal to the central portion224 (FIG. 8).

Therib222 preferably also includes a resistive element subassembly238 (FIGS. 8 and 9) having aresistive element240 for generating heat upon electric current passing therethrough. It is also preferred that theresistive element240 is adapted for connection to an electrical power source (not shown), as is known in the art. Theresistive element subassembly238 preferably is secured to thebottom end226, thelower surface232, or combinations thereof. Eachrib222 is adapted for receiving theobject21 on thetop end228 of thecentral portion224, and for heating the object to be barbecued by conduction of heat from the central portion and by radiation of heat from theupper surface234 of theridge portion230, as will be described. Preferably, theupper surface234 of theridge portion230 is configured to direct the liquid released by the barbecued object toward theouter edge236, as will also be described.

As can be seen inFIG. 7, theridge portion230 extends laterally from thecentral portion224. It is also preferred that eachrib222 is formed as an integral body which includes thecentral portion224 and theridge portion230, integrally joined together.

In one embodiment, theouter edge236 of eachridge portion230 is spaced apart from eachrib222 which is adjacent thereto by apredetermined distance237 to permit drainage of the liquid from eachupper surface234 at theouter edge236 thereof (FIG. 7). Thedistance237 should be minimized, in order to maximize the heat radiated onto the object being barbecued. However, this distance should also be sufficiently large to permit liquid and food particles to pass downwardly between theribs222. It has been determined that theoptimal distance237 is approximately 0.2 inches.

As can be seen inFIGS. 5 and 6, thebarbecue grill220 preferably includes agrid portion241 having aframe242 with one ormore support members244. Eachrib222 extends between afirst end246 and asecond end248 thereof. Preferably, thefirst end246 and thesecond end248 are both attached to the support member244 (FIG. 6). It is also preferred that theribs222 are positioned substantially parallel to each other (FIG. 5).

As shown inFIG. 6, thecentral portion224 of eachrib222 includes amain segment250 extending between the first and second ends246,248, and spaced apart from the first and second ends246,248. Theridge portion230 of eachrib222 preferably extends laterally a preselected distance252 (FIG. 7) from thecentral portion224 along the length of themain segment250. It is also preferred that each rib includes one ormore notches254 defining an opening257 (FIG. 6).

Thenotch segments254 are sized and located so that the opening257 defined thereby permits liquids and waste materials (i.e., food particles) from the object which are scraped off or otherwise directed by the rib to fall into a space258 provided beneath the barbecue grill220 (FIGS. 13,14).

Preferably, theresistive element subassembly238 includes alayer260 of dielectric material for substantially electrically isolating theresistive element240 from theridge portion230 and thecentral portion224. As shown inFIG. 8, in one embodiment, thelayer260 is attached to thelower surfaces232 ofridge portions230. As can be seen inFIG. 9, theresistive element subassembly238 may also be attached to thebottom end226 of thecentral portion224 as well as thelower surfaces232 of theridge portions230. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that theresistive element subassembly238 could also be attached only to thebottom end226 of thecentral portion224. Preferably, theresistive element subassembly238 is continuous, extending from one end of thegrid portion241 to another (FIG. 9).

As can be seen inFIGS. 7 and 8, theupper surface234 of theridge portion230 preferably is substantially planar. Theupper surface234 is also preferably positioned at a predetermined angle to the horizontal. Preferably, the predetermined angle is approximately 15°.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that theridge portion230 preferably is formed to have a minimum thickness. For example, the minimum thickness of theridge portion230 is designated as “J” inFIG. 7. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the minimum thickness of theridge portion230 is subject to certain constraints. To promote heat transfer through theridge portion230 from thelower surface232 to the upper surface234 (i.e., so that the maximum amount of heat is radiated from the upper surface234), theridge portion230 generally should be as thin as possible. On the other hand, however, theridge portion230 needs to have sufficient thickness to enable it to withstand the loads to which it is subjected, to maintain structural integrity. For instance, if the rib were made of cast iron, then the distance J may be at least 0.05 inches, at a minimum.

Preferably, the material out of which thegrid portion241 is made has a similar thermal expansion rate as theresistive element subassembly238. It is also important that thelayer260 be capable of adhering generally to the material. The material also preferably has a high heat tolerance, to enable it to withstand temperatures upwards of 600° C. The material preferably also should have a relatively good ability to conduct heat therethrough. Also, because of the need to scrape thegrid portion241 after use (i.e., to clean it), it is preferred that thegrid portion241 be made of material having sufficient durability to withstand repeated cleanings with metallic tools. In addition, the material out of which the grid portion is made should preferably be capable of receiving a porcelain coating, i.e., so that the porcelain coating generally can adhere to the material. Thegrid portion241 may be made of any suitable material, e.g., cast iron. Also, those skilled in the art would appreciate that certain grades of aluminium which are relatively hard (e.g., aluminum grade 6061-T6) may be suitable.

In one embodiment, the lower surface of theridge portion230 is positioned approximately 0.4 inches below the top end of the central portion thereof, and the ridge portion has a minimum thickness of approximately 0.05 inches.

The preferred distance between the centers of the ribs (designated as “K” inFIG. 7) may vary between approximately 0.5 inch and about one inch. More preferably, such distance is approximately 0.8 inch.

The width of the top end (designated as “L” inFIG. 7) is preferably kept to a minimum in order to minimize the mass of the central portion which is required to be heated. However, the top end is subjected to cleaning (usually scraping with metal bristles or a metal tool), and a certain amount of width is required for structural integrity. Accordingly, the width of the top end is preferably approximately 0.1 inch.

As can be seen inFIGS. 7 and 8, the sides of the central portion preferably are sloped, for ease of manufacturing. Preferably, the sides are at approximately 6° from the vertical.

As shown inFIG. 7, heat (represented by arrows “M”) is radiated from the upper surface generally upwardly, to assist in barbecuing the object to be barbecued. At the same time, heat (represented by arrow “N”) is conducted from the top end to the object to be barbecued. Liquid from the object flows under the influence of gravity, as represented by arrows “Q” inFIG. 7.

As can be seen inFIGS. 13 and 14, abarbecue assembly264 includes thebarbecue grill220 and ahousing266. Thehousing266 preferably includes afloor portion267 with a drain270 (FIG. 13) to permit drainage of the liquid and one ormore walls272 for supporting the barbecue grill220 a predetermined height above thefloor portion267. Preferably, thehousing266 also includes amovable lid274 adapted to cooperate with thewalls272 for retarding heat transfer out of thehousing266. Also, thefloor portion267 preferably includes afloor268 and aliner278 mounted on thefloor268 and configured for channeling the liquid toward thedrain270.

In one embodiment, one or more portions of thehousing266 includes one or moreinsulating components275 for retarding heat transfer out of the housing. The insulatingcomponent275 may be any suitable material or structure, as would be known by one skilled in the art. However, it is preferred that the insulating component be an air gap (not shown).

As can be seen inFIG. 14, the bottom of thegrill220 preferably is positioned relatively close to theliner278. Preferably, the volume of space between the bottom of thebarbecue grill220 and theliner278 is minimized, in order that thebarbecue assembly264 may have maximum efficiency, i.e., to minimize the extent of heat loss. Preferably, the liner is positioned not more than approximately three inches below the ribs.

An alternative embodiment of abarbecue grill320 of theinvention including ribs322 is disclosed inFIG. 10. Eachrib322 includes acentral portion324 and asingle ridge portion330. Preferably, eachrib322 has a portion of aresistive element subassembly338 mounted on a bottom surface thereof. As shown inFIG. 10, it is preferred that theribs322 in abarbecue grill320 including theribs322 are all oriented in the same way, i.e., with theridge portions330 on the same side of eachcentral portion324 respectively.

Another alternative embodiment of abarbecue grill420 is shown inFIGS. 11 and 12. Thebarbecue grill420 includes aframe442 in which thesupport member444 is generally circular in shape. Because of this, theribs422 in thebarbecue grill420 are of varying lengths. Preferably, a resistive element subassembly (not shown) similar to that shown inFIG. 8 is mounted on the bottom surfaces of theribs422.

As can be seen inFIGS. 11 and 12, theribs422 preferably includenotches454 definingopenings457 respectively, for permitting movement of liquid and food particles from the object (i.e., particularly food particles dislodged during cleaning of the grill420) therethrough by gravity.

In another alternative embodiment shown inFIGS. 15-24, abarbecue grill520 for cooking theobject21 preferably includes a firstresistive element subassembly531 and a secondresistive element subassembly533. Preferably, and as can be seen inFIGS. 15 and 16, thebarbecue grill520 is movable between one or more grill positions (FIG. 15), in which the grill is located for grilling theobject21, and one or more broil positions (FIG. 16), in which the grill is located for broiling theobject21. Thegrill520 is energizable in the grill positions and in the broil positions, as will be described.

Preferably, thegrill520 includes aframe542 to which the first and secondresistive element subassemblies531,533 are attached, so that theframe542 supports the first and secondresistive element subassemblies531,533. As can be seen inFIG. 22, when thegrill520 is in the grill position, the firstresistive element subassembly531 preferably defines a plane “P1” at which theobject21 is substantially supported. It is also preferred that the secondresistive element subassembly533 is spaced apart from the plane by a predetermined distance “D1” selected so that the secondresistive element subassembly533 is sufficiently proximal to theobject21 to at least partially cook theobject21. Preferably, theobject21 is receivable on at least part of the firstresistive element subassembly531 and supportable thereby.

Due to the positioning of theobject21 directly on the firstresistive element subassembly531 when the grill is in the grill position, the object is seared by its contact with the firstresistive element subassembly531, to provide burn markings thereon characteristic of grilled food. Because thegrill520 includes tworesistive element subassemblies531,533, adequate heat is generated by the resistive element subassemblies in the appropriate proportions, i.e., the firstresistive element subassembly531 produces sufficient heat to make grill markings on the object (and also to partially cook the object) and the secondresistive element subassembly533 produces sufficient heat to partially cook the object, to result in a fully cooked object.

As can be seen inFIG. 18A, it is also preferred that the firstresistive element subassembly531 includes a number of substantially straight firstresistive element segments561 positioned substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other to definegaps539 therebetween sized to permit liquid released from theobject21 during cooking to pass between the firstresistive element segments561 when thegrill520 is in the grill position.

In addition, the secondresistive element subassembly533 preferably includes a number of substantially straight secondresistive element segments563 which are substantially aligned respectively with thegaps539, as will be described.

In one embodiment, thegrill520 includes one ormore bus bars565 positioned at least partially in theframe542, for distributing electrical power to the first and secondresistive element subassemblies531,533. Preferably, thebus bar565 is electrically connected to the first and secondresistive element subassemblies531,533 as represented inFIG. 18B. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, circuits other than the circuit represented inFIG. 18B may be used to provide electric power to the first and secondresistive element subassemblies531,533. For example, other circuits could be used to focus the power to the first and second resistive element subassemblies independently (i.e., top and bottom), or laterally (i.e., front and back, or left side and right side), or any combinations thereof, as desired. Accordingly, in an alternative embodiment, the first and secondresistive subassemblies531,533 are energizable independently of each other.

Preferably, the grill is adapted for self-cleaning. As can be seen inFIG. 17B, alayer515 of cooked material (e.g., grease, etc.) accumulates onsheaths580 ofindividual elements517. (For clarity of illustration, thelayer515 is shown on only one of thesheaths580, but it will be understood that in practice all the sheaths accumulatesuch layers515 on them over time, to a greater or a lesser extent.) In order to self-clean, theelements517 are heated to a relatively high temperature (e.g., 650° F. or greater) for a relatively short time period (e.g., about 45 minutes, depending on materials). The ability to energize one portion of the grill independently of other parts thereof also facilitates self-cleaning.

Thegrill520 is well-adapted for self-cleaning because the heat for self-cleaning is generated by theresistive element540 inside thesheath580, while the cooked material which is to be removed is on the outside of thesheath580. In contrast, in attempting to self-clean a grill of the prior art, the grill elements therein typically do not have heat-generating elements positioned within them.

Preferably, thegrill520 is included in abarbecue assembly564, as shown inFIGS. 15,16, and19-23. Thebarbecue assembly564 includes a housing (or tub)566 which preferably hasslots569 inwalls572 of the housing566 (FIGS. 21,23) to permit movement of thegrill520 between the grill position(s) and the broil position(s), as will be described.

Thegrill520 preferably includes connector assemblies573 (FIG. 24) on two opposing sides thereof (FIG. 18A). Eachconnector assembly573 includes, among other things, one of the tubes571 (FIG. 18A). Preferably, thetubes571 extend outwardly from two opposing sides of the frame542 (FIG. 18A). Eachconnector assembly573 is for connecting thebus bar565 to a source of electrical power (not shown) so that thegrill520 is easily movable between the grill position(s) and the broil position(s), as will be described.

Preferably, thebus bar565 is partially located in thetubes571 respectively, to connect withsupply wires577 atrespective supply connections579 in thetubes571 respectively (FIG. 24). Electric power is supplied from the source thereof via thesupply wires577, as is known in the art.

In one embodiment, and as can be seen inFIG. 24, eachconnector assembly573 preferably also includes athermal insulator581 positioned in thetube571 between theframe542 and thesupply connection579. Thethermal insulator581 is for at least partially shielding therespective supply connections579 from heat generated by theresistive element subassemblies531,533. Preferably, thethermal insulator581 is made of any suitable thermal insulating material. In one embodiment, thethermal insulator581 is made of a suitable thermoset plastic (e.g., phenol formaldehyde resin, sold under the trademark Bakelite), as is known in the art.

It is also preferred that, in eachconnector assembly573, thesupply wire577 extends between thesupply connection579 and asupply wire subassembly583. Eachsupply wire subassembly583 includes aprotective covering585 in which thesupply wire577 and aground wire501 are at least partially positioned.

Preferably, and as can be seen inFIG. 24, in eachconnector assembly573, theprotective covering585 is held substantially stationary relative to thetube571 in which theprotective covering585 is located by afastening material591 which attaches theprotective covering585 to thetube591. The attachment of theprotective covering585 to thetube571 in this way is needed in order that theconnector assembly573 may pass “pull tests” which it is required to satisfy by regulative bodies in certain jurisdictions, as is known in the art.

Preferably, thetube571 and theframe542 are made of any suitable metal. For example, stainless steel is a suitable metal for these purposes. As shown inFIG. 24, thetube571 has anexterior surface503 to which theground wire501 is attached, for grounding. In addition, it is preferred that thetube571 includes ahole505. When theconnector assembly573 is assembled, thehole505 allows theground wire501 to be pulled out of thetube571 to theexterior surface503 of thetube571. Subsequently, theground wire501 is attached to the exterior surface by any suitable means (e.g., soldering), as is known in the art.

When theconnector assembly573 is assembled, thehole505 preferably is also used for access, for injection of thefastening material591 into thetube571 between theprotective covering585 and thethermal insulator581. It is preferred that thefastening material591 is any suitable material for securely attaching theprotective covering585 to an interior surface509 of thetube571. Epoxy has been found to be asuitable fastening material591, as epoxy is injectable to generally fill thetube571 between theprotective covering585 and thethermal insulator581, and provides a suitably secure bond between theprotective covering585 and the interior surface509 of thetube571 after curing thereof.

As can be seen inFIGS. 15 and 16, thebarbecue assembly564 preferably includes thegrill520. As described above, thegrill520 includes the first and secondresistive element subassemblies531,533. Thebarbecue assembly564 preferably also includes thehousing566 in which thebarbecue grill520 is mounted, for supporting thebarbecue grill520 in one or more predetermined positions, i.e., the grill position(s) and the broil position(s). (As shown, theassembly564 provides for only one grill position and only one broil position, for clarity of illustration.) Thegrill520 is shown in the grill position inFIGS. 15,21, and22. Thegrill520 is shown in broil positions inFIGS. 16,19,20, and23. As described, thegrill520 is energizable in the grill position and in the broil position.

In use, when thegrill520 is in the grill position (FIG. 15), thetubes571 are positioned in substantiallyhorizontal portions591 of theslots569 on each side of the housing566 (FIG. 21). (It will be understood that only one side of thehousing566 is shown inFIG. 21 for clarity of illustration. Similarly, when thegrill520 is in the broil position, thetubes571 are at the bottom of vertical portions599 of the slots569 (FIG. 23). It can be seen, therefore, that thegrill520 can easily be moved by a user (not shown) from the grill position to the broil position and vice versa simply by lifting theframe542 of thegrill520 as necessary in order to cause thetubes571 to be moved in theslots569 from the horizontal portion593 to the vertical portion599, and vice versa.

As shown inFIGS. 15 and 21, thebarbecue assembly564 includes a conventional rack511, which is positioned above thegrill520 when thegrill520 is in the grill position. When the user wishes to move thegrill520 from the grill position to the broil position, the user preferably first removes the rack511.

It will be understood that, when thegrill520 is in the broil position, the object to be cooked may be positioned as required relative to thegrill520 in any suitable manner. For example, as can be seen inFIGS. 16 and 23, thewalls572 preferably includeslots513 opening upwardly in which the ends of a spit (not shown) are receivable. As is known, the spit is positionable at the bottom of theslots513 and rotatable therein so that the object may be cooked relatively uniformly throughout.

As can be seen inFIGS. 25 and 26, in another embodiment, thebarbecue assembly664 includes ahousing666 withwalls672 includingholes669 in which thetubes571 are receivable, i.e., rather than the slots. In thisassembly664, thegrill520 is pivotable at its front end from the grill position (FIG. 25) upwardly to a raised position (FIG. 26). Preferably, thegrill520 is held in the raised position by any suitable means, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Thegrill520 is located in the raised position to permit cleaning of the housing.

It will be understood that, if the housing is constructed so to permit, then the grill may be positionable in a broil position as well when the tubes are positioned in holes in the housing wall.

It will also be understood that the barbecue assembly could include abarbecue grill520 which is substantially fixed in place, e.g., in the grill position, if desired. In this embodiment, the connections of the bus bar and the supply wires could be made inside traditional terminal/junction boxes on either or both sides of the grill, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specific function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. §112, paragraph 6.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention can take many forms, and that such forms are within the scope of the invention as claimed. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the descriptions of the preferred versions contained herein.

Claims (6)

1. A barbecue grill for cooking an object, the barbecue grill comprising:

a first resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object;

a second resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object;

the barbecue grill being movable between at least one grill position, in which the grill is located for grilling the object, and at least one broil position, in which the grill is located for broiling the object, the grill being energizable in said at least one grill position and in said at least one broil position;

a frame to which the first and second resistive element subassemblies are attached such that the frame supports the first and second resistive element subassemblies;

a bus bar positioned at least partially in the frame, for distributing electrical power to the first and second resistive element subassemblies; and

the bus bar being partially located in tubes attached to two opposing sides of the frame respectively to connect with supply wires at respective supply connections in the tubes.

2. A barbecue grill according toclaim 1 additionally comprising a thermal insulator positioned in each said tube respectively between the frame and the supply connection, for at least partially shielding the respective supply connections from heat generated by the resistive element subassemblies.

3. A barbecue grill according toclaim 2 in which said supply wires extend between the respective supply connections and respective supply wire subassemblies, each said supply wire subassembly comprising a protective covering in which the supply wires are at least partially positioned, and each said protective covering is held substantially stationary relative to each said tube by a fastening material attaching each said protective covering to each said tube respectively.

4. A barbecue assembly for cooking an object, the barbecue assembly comprising:

a barbecue grill comprising:

a first resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object;

a second resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object;

a tub in which the barbecue grill is mounted, for supporting the barbecue grill in at least one predetermined position;

a grill frame movable relative to the tub to which the resistive element subassemblies are attached, for supporting the resistive subassemblies;

a bus bar at least partially positioned in the grill frame, for distributing electrical power to the first and second resistive element subassemblies; and

the bus bar being partially located in tubes attached to two opposing sides of the grill frame respectively to connect with supply wires at respective supply connections in the tubes.

5. A barbecue assembly according toclaim 4 additionally comprising a thermal insulator positioned in each said tube respectively between the frame and the supply connection, for at least partially shielding the respective supply connections from heat generated by the resistive element subassemblies.

6. A barbecue assembly according toclaim 5 in which said supply wires extend between the respective supply connections and respective supply wire subassemblies, each said supply wire subassembly comprising a protective covering in which the supply wires are at least partially positioned, and each said protective covering is held substantially stationary relative to each said tube by a fastening material attaching each said protective covering to each said tube respectively.

Images